The first ever International Camping and RV Show in South Korea opened its doors at Coex Exhibition Hall in Seoul today (July 9), Arirang, Korea’s Global TV network reported.

Recent figures show, camping has never been more popular in Korea and this trend looks set to continue for many years to come as this International Camping and RV Show highlights a variety of useful camping tips for both avid and first-time campers.

Despite the early morning hours, hundreds of visitors came down to check out the show.

“Compared to years before, there are definitely more people who are interested in going camping here in Korea,” said Park Hee-wong, exhibition manager. “So, we thought it would be a good idea for us to put together an exhibition of different camping goods to provide useful information.”

Camping enthusiasts say that spending a night out in the forest is not only romantic, but also a great value-for-money option.

And recent data shows that the market trend for camping equipment is forecast to be about 300 billion won, roughly $250 million U.S. dollars, in 2010 compared to 2007 when it stood at only around 50 billion won.

Such trend shows that the market for camping goods is quickly expanding as more and more people are discovering the joys of sleeping under the stars with their friends and family.

“We first went camping last year because my husband suggested it would be a good chance to spend some quality time with our kids,” show visitor Shin Hye-hyun told the TV station. “I especially like how my children can play freely in nature.”

At the show, visitors expressed hope that more opportunities to learn about camping basics and equipment would pop up more in the future.

The three-day International Camping and RV Show 2010 will run through Sunday.

According to The Korea Herald, the following are some of the most famous camping sites in Korea that can be good for first-timers. Almost all national parks in the country have a camping site.

Mangsang Auto Camping Resort

The resort is located right by the Mangsang beach in Donghae City, Gangwon Province. Aside from an accommodation of 35 units, it has 76 caravans, a camping site and other convenience facilities.

Songjiho Auto Camping Resort

Also located in Gangwon Province, this camping complex has about 90 tent lots for campers. Early reservation is a must as the sites become booked way in advance. The resort usually opens from April to November but this year, it will be open until October.

Jarasum Camping

Even professional campers recommend Jarasum Camping complex as a good destination. It is located on a 536,930-square-meter Jara Island. It has mobile homes, caravans, auto camping site, a playing field as well as other public facilities. The scenery is beautiful.